How many hours should you book a wedding photographer for?

Short answer

Book at least 6 to 8 hours for a typical wedding. That covers getting ready, the ceremony, group photos and part of the reception. For full coverage from morning to late evening, book 10 to 12 hours.

Six hours usually starts with you getting ready or just before the ceremony, and finishes after the first dance or the cake cutting. Eight hours gives you more breathing room for travel between venues and for relaxed couple portraits. Ten to twelve hours covers the whole day, from early preparation through to the evening party.

Think about what matters to you. If you want photos of the dress, the flowers and the nervous moments before the ceremony, book enough time to include those. If you only care about the ceremony and group shots, six hours may be enough. Remember that travel between the ceremony and reception venue takes time out of your photographer's hours.

Ask your photographer how they structure their day. Some include a break for their own meal, which is fair and normal. Be realistic about your schedule and leave a little slack. A rushed photographer cannot do their best work. If you are unsure, book slightly more time than you think you need, because you cannot add hours on the day easily.